Intercultural Differences =)

Last year, I went to Japan for a holiday with my family. Despite being a short trip, several encounters emphasized the existence of intercultural differences between Singapore and Japan.

It is a norm in Singapore to observe couples, friends and family members standing side by side on escalators. However, this is not the case in Japan. Only those who are on the move are seen on the right side of escalators. This scene is illustrated by Photo No.1. I was amazed at this thoughtful aspect of the Japan culture.

[Photo No.1]

Moreover, on public transport, almost no one was seen talking on the phone. In contrast, this is a rare scene in Singapore. This is in consistent with the Japanese mobile plans which emphasized on low charges for short message services as well as larger allowance of characters per message. Similarly, our mobile plans are also quite reflective of our culture. Mobile plan highlighted more on free incoming and outgoing calls rather than free messages. Even though I knew of this characteristic beforehand, it was still shocking for me to experience the absolute compliance of Japanese to this custom.

Japan is indeed very service-orientated. Employees welcome customers very warmly upon arrival of the store. This is in conjunction with the continuous bowing and nodding. In addition, most workers expressed their gratitude umpteen times regardless of the amount of stuff one buys. There was this retail assistant in a store that bow so low that I could not see his features clearly. After some research, I even learnt that bowing culture in Japan is much more than it seems.


All in all, Japanese strongly value group before self. They see themselves as part of a larger group rather than individuals. This has a very large impact on their behaviors, norms and customs. This meticulously thoughtfulness of Japan culture is indeed unique and different from that of Singapore. In my opinion, employees whom provide great services view themselves as part of a larger operational family. This therefore drives them to have an extraordinary positive working attitude.

In the first week upon return to Singapore, I was easily irritated when I rushed my way through the escalator. Furthermore, I could not stop myself from bowing spontaneously to the retail assistants in Singapore. Although these differences have not result in major complications, I do admit I have to make tiny adjustments here and there to feel fully comfortable in their culture. I believe this is also the case for Japanese coming to Singapore. With these, I learnt the importance of both understanding and compromising in preventing any possible miscommunications.

Personal Statement =) (Edited)

I am currently a final year undergraduate in National University of Singapore (NUS), majoring in Life Sciences. I have gained better understanding of the complex system of humans. Moreover, laboratory experiences have enhanced my observational, analytical skills. Doing research projects have also taught me to be more flexible in terms of time commitments as well as work approaches.

Moreover, active involvement in co-curriculum activities has made me realized the importance of teamwork. As the publicity and marketing head of the annual event of NUS Voices, Emerge 2007, I realized that effective communication is the basis of strong bonding in a team. Each department should not solely function as an independent group. Instead, we should all cooperate and coordinate the actions together towards the same goal. Dealing with the problems encountered during the event, i developed good organizational and interpersonal skills.

My family is a very essential part of my life. Even though my family’s financial status is below average, we have pulled through reasonably well. The financial difficulties have shaped my character to one that is highly motivated and determined. I am generally optimistic and I trust that hard work would be eventually paid off. Hence, if I choose to do something, I would put in my greatest effort and commitment.

I strongly believe in “Less is more.” The lesser one desires, the happier one would be. Therefore, I cherish the quality relationships with my loved ones. This is in conjunction with the pleasure I find in helping others. One meaningful voluntary experience would be the visit to the Lion’s Home for the Aged. Accompanied by my junior college’s choir members, we went to perform and interact with the elderly. These simple tasks we did brought great happiness to the elderly.

I am positive in embarking on a life-long journey of learning. This goes hand in hand with my intention of working in a challenging environment that involves both independence and teamwork.

Good news, Bad news!

Cute comic strip to share with everyone! =)

Task: Application Letter

Job title: Clinical Research Coordinator

Job scope

•Support the University Orthopaedics, Hand & Reconstructive Microsurgery Cluster in executing healthcare-performance related activities

•Work closely with our doctors to facilitate care for our patients in the respective clinical pathways

•Track the performance of these clinical pathways

Requirements

•Strong communication (verbal & written) and interpersonal skills

•Proficient in Microsoft Office applications for data analysis and presentations

•Possess degree in Bio-science, Nursing or clinical-related disciplines

•Experience in clinical setting is preferred but not a must

•Fresh graduates will also be considered

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Block 456 Ang Mo Kio
Ave 10 #18-1590
Singapore 560456

September 2, 2009
Human Resource Department
Excellent HR Pte Ltd
10 Anson Road #20-03
International Plaza
Singapore 079903

Dear Sir/Mdm,

Application for Clinical Research Coordinator, Job Reference No: JDBS143942001

I am writing in response to your advertisement for the above post which appeared in JobsDB.com on 29th August, 2009.

I am currently in my final year of pursuing an Honours degree in Life Sciences, specializing in Biomedical Sciences. I am particularly interested in experiencing the challenges in the clinical setting. I have been actively involved in co-curricular activities (CCA) throughout the course of my junior college and university. Having to strike a balance between schoolwork and CCA, I have acquired time-management and organizational skills. Most importantly, I enjoy working with people and therefore an appropriate candidate for this post which calls for close working relationships with doctors and patients.

I believe that the non-core modules, “Introduction to Psychology” and “Effective Communication” are additional bonus for this post. These courses have equipped me with good communication and interpersonal skills. In addition, the life science projects have made me realize the roles of patience and dedication in research.

The recent large-scale study regarding scoliosis done by the University Spine Centre has provided more insights on the human musculoskeletal system. I would really like an opportunity to contribute to the enhancement of the healthcare standard for the patients. Enclosed is my CV. If you have any further enquires, do not hesitate to contact me at 83686716, or email me at u0602060@nus.edu.sg. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Thank you for your consideration.

Yours sincerely,


___________
Rebecca Loh

Enclosure